Miami Commissioner Ralph Rosado’s Press Conference Draws Broad Support from Regional Communities
By Laiz Rodrigues-Miami, Florida – January 7, 2026
Miami City Commissioner Ralph “Rafael” Rosado held a press conference today at Miami City Hall, co-hosted with the Venezuelan American Republican Club, to discuss the implications of the recent U.S. military operation that resulted in the capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The event highlighted Miami’s role as a stronghold for Latin American exile communities and reaffirmed the city’s dedication to promoting democracy and human rights across the region.
Attendees included representatives from various diaspora groups, underscoring the shared regional concerns over authoritarian regimes. Notably, the Brazil America Council was present in support of Commissioner Rosado, with Brenno Dias, Vice President of the Council in South Florida, attending to demonstrate solidarity. The participation from the Brazilian-American community reflects growing cross-border alliances among exile and immigrant groups in South Florida advocating for freedom and accountability in Latin America.
During the conference, Commissioner Rosado emphasized the historic significance of the U.S. action, which occurred on January 3 and led to Maduro facing federal charges in New York. “This moment resonates deeply with our Venezuelan, Cuban, Nicaraguan, and broader Latin American communities here in Miami,” Rosado said. He praised the leadership of President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, stating, “We stand firmly with those pursuing democracy, freedom, and human rights—the core values that define America.”
The Venezuelan American Republican Club, focused on conservative values and civic engagement among Latin Americans in Miami-Dade, played a key role in organizing the event. Speakers celebrated the operation as a pivotal step toward justice, while calling for sustained efforts to ensure a stable democratic transition in Venezuela.
The presence of figures like Brenno Dias highlighted the interconnected struggles against oppression in the hemisphere, extending solidarity beyond Venezuelan issues to include concerns shared by Brazilian, Cuban, and other communities. As celebrations and discussions continue in South Florida following Maduro’s capture—with interim leadership under Delcy Rodríguez navigating uncertain relations with the U.S.—events like today’s press conference reinforce Miami’s position as a vibrant center for advocacy on Latin American liberty.
Rosado concluded by pledging ongoing support: “Miami will always be a beacon for those fleeing tyranny and fighting for a better future.” The diverse attendance, including from the Brazil America Council, illustrated the unifying impact of these developments on the region’s multicultural fabric.
